OM System OM-1 Mark II Review: Best Micro Four Thirds 2024?

The OM System OM-1 Mark II represents the latest evolution in the Micro Four Thirds camera system, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor while introducing significant improvements that matter to both enthusiast and professional photographers. As the flagship offering from OM System (formerly Olympus), this camera aims to prove that sensor size isn’t everything when it comes to creating exceptional images.

After extensive testing across various shooting scenarios, from wildlife photography to street scenes, the OM-1 Mark II demonstrates that thoughtful engineering and advanced computational photography can deliver results that challenge conventional wisdom about camera sensors. Let’s dive deep into what makes this camera tick and whether it deserves a place in your kit.

Build Quality and Design

Weather Sealing and Durability

The OM-1 Mark II continues OM System’s tradition of exceptional build quality, featuring IPX1-rated weather sealing that can withstand challenging conditions. During field testing in light rain and dusty environments, the camera performed flawlessly without any ingress issues. The magnesium alloy body feels substantial despite weighing only 599g, making it significantly lighter than comparable full-frame alternatives.

The grip design has been refined from the original OM-1, providing better ergonomics for extended shooting sessions. The button layout is intuitive, with customizable controls that allow photographers to adapt the camera to their specific workflow needs.

Connectivity and Interface

Modern connectivity features include built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-C charging, which proves invaluable for field work. The 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD is bright and responsive, while the 5.76-million-dot OLED viewfinder provides exceptional clarity even in challenging lighting conditions.

Technical Specifications

Feature	OM System OM-1 Mark II
Sensor	20.4MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds
Image Processor	TruePic X
ISO Range	200-25,600 (extended: 64-102,400)
Autofocus	1053-point Cross-type Phase Detection
Continuous Shooting	Up to 120 fps (electronic), 10 fps (mechanical)
Image Stabilization	5-axis, up to 8 stops compensation
Video Recording	4K60p, C4K, Full HD up to 240p
Weather Sealing	IPX1 rated
Battery Life	Approximately 520 shots (CIPA)
Weight	599g (body only)
Dimensions	134.8 × 91.6 × 72.7mm

Image Quality Performance

High ISO Capabilities

One area where Micro Four Thirds cameras traditionally struggled was high ISO performance, but the OM-1 Mark II makes significant strides in this regard. The new TruePic X processor, combined with advanced noise reduction algorithms, produces surprisingly clean images up to ISO 6400. Even at ISO 12,800, images remain usable with proper noise reduction in post-processing.

The camera’s computational photography features, including High Res mode that can create 80-megapixel images, demonstrate how software can enhance hardware capabilities. This mode works exceptionally well for landscape and architectural photography where fine detail is paramount.

Dynamic Range and Color Science

OM System’s color science has always been a strength, and the OM-1 Mark II continues this tradition with natural, pleasing colors straight out of camera. The dynamic range, while not matching larger sensors, is competitive within its class and the highlight/shadow recovery in RAW files provides adequate flexibility for most shooting scenarios.

The camera’s various Art Filters and color profiles offer creative options without requiring extensive post-processing, making it appealing to photographers who prefer to get their vision right in-camera.

Autofocus System Analysis

Speed and Accuracy

The 1053-point Cross-type Phase Detection autofocus system is genuinely impressive, offering subject detection for various subjects including birds, animals, motorcycles, and airplanes. The AI-powered subject recognition works remarkably well, maintaining focus on erratically moving subjects with consistency that rivals much more expensive camera systems.

In practical testing, the autofocus acquisition speed is lightning-fast, and the tracking performance during continuous shooting modes is exceptional. The eye detection for both humans and animals works reliably, making portrait and wildlife photography significantly easier.

Low Light Performance

Autofocus performance remains reliable down to -7 EV, which is outstanding for any camera system. This capability, combined with the excellent image stabilization, makes the OM-1 Mark II capable in situations where other cameras might struggle.

Video Recording Capabilities

4K Performance and Features

Video recording capabilities have been substantially improved in the Mark II, with internal 4K60p recording and various professional codecs available. The internal recording quality is impressive, with minimal rolling shutter and good detail retention even in challenging lighting conditions.

The 5-axis image stabilization proves invaluable for handheld video work, providing smooth footage without the need for external gimbals in many situations. Various video-specific features, including focus peaking, zebras, and professional audio controls, make this a legitimate option for content creators.

Creative Video Tools

The camera includes various video-specific Art Filters and effects that can be applied during recording, offering creative possibilities for filmmakers who want to achieve specific looks in-camera rather than in post-production.

Image Stabilization Excellence

Real-World Performance

The 5-axis image stabilization system in the OM-1 Mark II is genuinely class-leading, providing up to 8 stops of compensation with compatible lenses. In practical use, this means sharp handheld shots at shutter speeds that would be impossible with unstabilized systems.

During testing, consistently sharp images were achieved at shutter speeds as slow as 1-2 seconds with wide-angle lenses, opening up creative possibilities for long exposure effects without tripods.

Sync Stabilization

When paired with optically stabilized lenses, the sync stabilization feature combines lens and body stabilization for even better results, particularly beneficial for telephoto work where every bit of stabilization matters.

Battery Life and Power Management

The single battery provides approximately 520 shots per CIPA standards, which is reasonable but not exceptional. The USB-C charging capability allows for field charging using power banks, extending shooting time significantly during longer outings.

The camera’s power management has been optimized to extend battery life during video recording and high-speed shooting modes, though carrying spare batteries is recommended for intensive use.

Lens Ecosystem Advantages

Micro Four Thirds Benefits

The Micro Four Thirds system’s 2x crop factor means that telephoto photography becomes much more accessible and portable. A 300mm lens provides a 600mm equivalent field of view while remaining hand-holdable, making this system particularly attractive for wildlife and sports photography.

The extensive lens selection from OM System, Panasonic, and third-party manufacturers provides options for virtually every shooting scenario, often at lower cost and weight compared to full-frame equivalents.

Size and Weight Considerations

The complete system size advantage becomes apparent when building a comprehensive kit. A professional-level setup with multiple lenses remains significantly lighter and more compact than full-frame alternatives, making it ideal for travel and extended shooting sessions.

Performance in Different Shooting Scenarios

Wildlife Photography

The combination of excellent image stabilization, fast autofocus with animal detection, and the inherent reach advantage of the Micro Four Thirds system makes the OM-1 Mark II exceptional for wildlife photography. The 120 fps burst mode ensures you won’t miss critical moments, while the weather sealing provides confidence in challenging field conditions.

Street Photography

The camera’s compact size, silent shooting modes, and excellent image quality make it well-suited for street photography. The discrete form factor doesn’t draw attention, while the fast autofocus ensures you can capture spontaneous moments reliably.

Landscape Photography

While the smaller sensor provides less ultimate dynamic range than full-frame alternatives, the High Res mode, excellent image stabilization, and compact system size make it a viable option for landscape work. The weather sealing is particularly valuable in challenging outdoor conditions.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Exceptional image stabilization providing up to 8 stops of compensation
Outstanding autofocus system with reliable subject detection and tracking
Weather-sealed, durable construction suitable for professional use
Compact system size with excellent lens selection
Strong video capabilities including 4K60p internal recording
Fast burst rates up to 120 fps for action photography
Competitive pricing compared to full-frame alternatives

Limitations

High ISO performance still trails larger sensor systems
Battery life could be better for intensive shooting
Smaller sensor limits ultimate image quality potential
Limited third-party lens options compared to more popular mounts
High-speed shooting can overwhelm buffer quickly

Who Should Buy the OM System OM-1 Mark II?

Ideal Users

Wildlife and Sports Photographers will appreciate the telephoto reach advantage, excellent autofocus tracking, and fast burst rates. The system’s portability makes it practical for extended field work where every ounce matters.

Travel Photographers benefit from the compact system size, weather sealing, and versatile performance across various shooting scenarios. The ability to carry a comprehensive kit in a small bag is invaluable for international travel.

Content Creators who need both strong stills and video capabilities will find the OM-1 Mark II’s dual-purpose design appealing, especially with its excellent stabilization for handheld work.

Consider Alternatives If

Low Light Specialists who regularly shoot in challenging lighting conditions might be better served by full-frame alternatives like the Sony A7 IV, which offers superior high ISO performance.

Large Print Requirements for photographers who regularly create very large prints, the additional resolution and dynamic range of full-frame sensors may be necessary.

Practical Tips for OM-1 Mark II Users

Maximizing Image Quality

Use the High Res mode for static subjects requiring maximum detail
Leverage the excellent image stabilization for creative long exposures
Shoot in RAW format to maximize post-processing flexibility
Take advantage of the various Art Filters for creative in-camera effects

Optimizing Performance

Customize button layouts for your specific shooting style
Use back-button focus for improved autofocus control
Configure custom modes for frequently used settings combinations
Invest in high-speed memory cards to handle burst shooting effectively

System Building

Start with versatile zoom lenses like the 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO
Consider the 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO for telephoto work
Add fast primes like the 25mm f/1.2 PRO for low light situations
Don’t overlook third-party options from manufacturers like Sigma

Conclusion and Recommendation

The OM System OM-1 Mark II represents the current pinnacle of Micro Four Thirds technology, successfully addressing many traditional weaknesses while building upon the system’s inherent strengths. While it may not match the ultimate image quality potential of larger sensor systems, it delivers exceptional performance in a remarkably compact and capable package.

For photographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing professional features, the OM-1 Mark II is difficult to beat. Its combination of weather sealing, advanced autofocus, exceptional stabilization, and comprehensive lens ecosystem creates a compelling proposition for many shooting scenarios.

The camera particularly excels in wildlife, travel, and content creation applications where system size and versatility matter more than absolute image quality. However, photographers who regularly work in extremely challenging lighting conditions or require the ultimate in image quality might want to consider full-frame alternatives.

At its current price point, the OM-1 Mark II offers excellent value for photographers who understand and can work within the Micro Four Thirds system’s parameters. It’s a mature, well-executed camera that proves sensor size isn’t the only factor determining photographic success.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars - An excellent camera that maximizes the potential of the Micro Four Thirds format while providing professional-level features and performance in a compact, durable package.